Question: I read that some states are discussing changes to fee schedules that may cover naloxone prescriptions dispensed to people other than the injured worker, but that are used on the injured worker in an emergency. What exactly is naloxone, and how can a prescription be given to someone other than the end user?

In an effort to curb overdose deaths from opioid use, several states have begun enacting laws that support naloxone access outside of a health care setting. The opioid antagonist naloxone (a.k.a., NarcanŽ) has been available since 1971 as an injectable for the reversal of opioid depression (including respiratory depression) and for acute opioid overdose; however, the drug was typically only used in a hospital setting. Today, expanding access to naloxone by first-responders and within the community is growing.